Armor Venuehttp://blog.armorvenue.com
Get the latest specials and news at Armorvenue.comWed, 13 Sep 2017 07:23:50 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.7.12The Importance of Leather Armor Maintenancehttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/09/05/the-importance-of-leather-armor-maintenance/
Tue, 05 Sep 2017 07:15:17 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=827Continue reading →]]>Leather armor has been used by different civilizations at different times, and often shows up at Renaissance faires and other historical reenactments. Besides being tough and durable, leather is also relatively easy to care for, although it does need regular attention. When properly maintained, good medieval leather armor can last decades and still be in excellent shape.

Why It’s Important

Just like anything else, dirty leather is more susceptible to mold, mildew, and other damage. If dirt and debris get ground into the leather, they can weaken it and cause it to break down. Remember that you’ll probably be wearing your armor in conditions where there’s a lot of dust and dirt to go around. Reenactments are typically held in fairgrounds and other outdoor locations, and often go on for days in which you’ll likely be sweating and encountering all sorts of substances from soot to rain.

How to Clean Leather

Every time you use your medieval leather armor, clean it afterwards by wiping it with a damp cloth to remove the dirt. Then let it air dry completely before putting it into storage. Pay special attention to the insides of the armor, where sweat from your body causes salt and moisture to accumulate.
If your leather is especially dirty, you can use a leather cleaner like saddle soap to get out debris that is deeply ingrained. When you purchase your armor, ask for cleaning instructions so you know what products are safe to use on each individual piece.

Additional Maintenance

Occasionally, ancient Greek helmets and other leather armor pieces need additional maintenance. Soft leather should be oiled from time to time–usually every few months, depending on how often you use it. Don’t oil heavy leather armor, since the oil will cause it to lose stiffness and shape.

Most leather pieces will also have to be sealed on a regular basis. This creates a protective coating that helps keep out all that damaging dirt. It also helps prevent stains and scuff marks, keeping your armor in the best shape possible.

]]>Different Types of Roman Shieldshttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/07/different-types-of-roman-shields/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/07/different-types-of-roman-shields/#respondMon, 07 Aug 2017 05:34:47 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=824Continue reading →]]>Shields were once a common tool in ancient warfare, and they came in all shapes and sizes. In Ancient Rome, there were 3 types of shields that were frequently used, and each of them had a specific purpose. If you’re looking to buy a Roman shield, keep reading to learn more about the different types and their functions, so that you can choose the right one for your purposes.

Legionnaire Scutum

The scuta are a well-known type of Roman shield. These large shields were usually either rectangular or oval in shape, as well as having a concave curve to them that provided foot soldiers with excellent protection. Their size and shape allowed soldiers to protect their entire bodies from enemy attacks, and allowed legions to form the well-known testudo, or tortoise formation. In this formation, soldiers gathered close together and align their scuta in front of them and over their heads, protecting the group from frontal assaults and attacks with projectiles. However, this restricted arm movement and made it difficult to counterattack.

Parma

While perfect for legionnaires, a scutum was far too bulky for soldiers on horseback. For this reason, mounted soldiers would use smaller round shields called parma. These were typically only 36 inches across or less, and were made from a variety of materials including iron, wood, and leather.

Clipeus

The clipeus was the most common type of shield used in Rome after the 3rd century. They were typically made of vertical planks held together with a type of glue. The planks were then covered with painted leather and bound around with edges with rawhide. These shields were the standard shields of Roman soldiers, and often used among gladiators in the arena. In gladiatorial fights, the shields were frequently decorated with elaborate designs in order to heighten the spectacle of the fight.

If you’re searching for a Roman shield for an event or party, make sure you know which type of shield will best suit your costume in order to give it an authentic air!

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/07/different-types-of-roman-shields/feed/0How Leather Armor Was Used in the Roman Militaryhttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/05/how-leather-armor-was-used-in-the-roman-military/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/05/how-leather-armor-was-used-in-the-roman-military/#respondSat, 05 Aug 2017 11:14:28 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=814Continue reading →]]>Leather is a versatile material that has been used in the military since early times for its sturdy, protective nature. If you’re looking for leather armor for sale, you’ll be able to find quite a variety ranging from early Roman times into the Medieval era.

Standardized Equipment

Although other soldiers had begun using leather armor before the Romans, the Romans were one of the first civilizations to start standardizing their military equipment. Everything they used–from weapons to armor–was created according to a set pattern and produced in large quantities. This ensured that everyone was equally equipped to go into battle, and it also made weapons and armor easier to manufacture in large numbers. Both gave them a distinct advantage over their less organized barbarian adversaries.

In addition to clothing, Roman armies used leather for a variety of purposes such as shields and horses’ harnesses, and also used it for larger weapons.

Benefits of Leather

Medieval leather armor had many benefits for the wearer. While strong, it was also light and relatively flexible–especially compared with other options like metal or wood. This gave soldiers more speed and maneuverability, and let them excel in hand-to-hand combat. It had other advantages over metal armor as well: leather was cheaper and more readily available, and it was far easier to make armor.

Types of Leather Armor

People looking for leather armor for sale are sure to find many varieties of arm guards, chest guards, and skirts to protect the upper thighs. These were all common in the Roman military, and you’ll find different styles based on the time each piece was used. Leather footwear was also frequently used to protect soldiers’ feet as they traveled long distances or over rough ground.

Leather was commonly used in combination with other materials–especially metals–to give the wearer the best combination of strength and maneuverability. Metal plates would often be fastened together with leather straps, or leather could be used to protect the legs while metal was used to protect the chest and head. Leather could also be used to pad heavy metal chest protectors to make the wearer a little more comfortable.

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/05/how-leather-armor-was-used-in-the-roman-military/feed/0How to Choose the Right Viking Shieldhttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/03/how-to-choose-the-right-viking-shield/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/03/how-to-choose-the-right-viking-shield/#respondThu, 03 Aug 2017 11:36:17 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=818Continue reading →]]>If you are in the market for a Viking helmet or shield to complete your ensemble, there are a number of practical considerations that go into the decision. From deciding on how historically accurate to be, to what weather you will be using it in, the only major difference between you and a historical Viking is that you will hopefully not have to depend on your shield for your life. In looking for a shield, there are essentially four major considerations.

Historical Shape

You are going to have a round shield. Although some incredibly spare references suggest that later Vikings might have occasionally used tear drop shields, no archaeological evidence supports this. Exactly how large your round shield should be is actually up for some debate: too small a shield and you will be open to attack, too large and you will hamper your own movement and perception. Generally, the size you want should go about from your neck to your knees in a slightly crouched “fighting” position. They are not one size fits all, but, again, different Vikings might have preferred different sizes to suit their fighting styles.

Weight

You are going to have to carry this thing wherever you go in costume. You might have a good idea, when looking at a Viking helmet for sale, about how much weight you want on your head. When looking for a shield, you need to consider how much you want to hold up in one hand in whatever situation you will be in. Viking shields are made of wood, and some were likely bound in leather. Either can be quite weighty, especially depending on what kind of wood it is. Add water weight to that if you choose to get one that is not sealed against the elements.

Durability

If you are going to be in a mock battle, your shield might take more than mock damage. Make sure that you choose the shield appropriate to the use to which you will put it. If you only need it complete your look, how many ax strikes it can take might be a moot point. However, if you need it to take punishment, make sure you get one that is sturdily constructed and reinforced.

Colors

Finally, you will need to decide what colors and designs you will have on your shield. Although there are a limited number of historical colors to choose from (evidence exists for the combinations of black/yellow and red/white), this is one area where you might let your individuality or Viking group (if applicable) help you decide. There is not a lot of surviving evidence to suggest that any design was off the table in terms of decoration, but remember that anything added to the shield adds more weight, even paint. This final consideration helps ensure that when you or your Vikings shield themselves, they will look both accurate and intimidating.

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/08/03/how-to-choose-the-right-viking-shield/feed/0How to Choose the Right Type of Roman Helmethttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/12/how-to-choose-the-right-type-of-roman-helmet/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/12/how-to-choose-the-right-type-of-roman-helmet/#respondWed, 12 Jul 2017 06:04:41 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=802Continue reading →]]>Whether you are looking at listings for a Roman helmet or have come across an individual with a Roman helmet for sale, there are a number of factors that go into choosing the right type of Roman helmet for your needs. Think about what you are going to do with your helmet, decide on the time period and social rank of the Roman you would like to represent, and consider your budget.

The Real Roman Helmet

If you are going to wear the helmet or put in on display, your needs are going to change depending on how you will use it. For a helmet you intend to wear, you will likely want something that is comfortable and provides the protection that your re-enactments require. If you want to display it, the aesthetic qualities of your helmet might be your most important consideration. You also need to consider how historically accurate you would like your helmet to be; there are quite a few Hollywood-inspired inaccuracies in some popular styles.

Although the helmets of gladiators were much more stylized for entertainment, both gladiator and soldier helmets were a mixture of form and function. Before you start shopping, figure out what type of helmet you want and what social standing you want to represent. Do you want a helmet from the infantry, the cavalry, a centurion, or any of the various kinds of gladiator? With the various spikes, plumes, and materials (brass, bronze, iron, and steel versions are well represented), there should be something to fit your costume or room design.

In general, most sellers will tell you want kind of helmet they are selling you, but it is always advisable to do independent research, especially if they are an individual as opposed to a company with a reputation to maintain. If you are looking for presentation, stainless steel might seem like a good option, but if you are going for historical accuracy, stainless steel did not yet exist in Roman times. Early Roman helmets were fairly simple: dome, forehead guard, rear neck guard, and ear guards. At the height of the empire, more elaborate techniques were incorporated from various conquered peoples, like “eyebrows” engraved into the brow. Late Roman designs incorporate elements, like nose-bridge guards, that were early examples of common medieval armor elements.

Hopefully you can now make a more informed choice the next time you are looking for a Roman helmet for sale. While some cheap costume options are available, the investment in a well-made replica will pay off over time because it will not fall apart. Remember that the most important part of the decision is whether or not you will be happy with your purchase. You do have options, even within historical parameters, so make sure to get the helmet that meets your needs.

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/12/how-to-choose-the-right-type-of-roman-helmet/feed/0A Brief Introduction to Roman Soldier Costumeshttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/10/a-brief-introduction-to-roman-soldier-costumes/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/10/a-brief-introduction-to-roman-soldier-costumes/#respondMon, 10 Jul 2017 05:14:55 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=810Continue reading →]]>If you find yourself needing to dress like a Roman soldier, it’s likely you’re looking for a standard version of roman soldier armor. Nevertheless, don’t worry if you cannot get everything perfect, as roman soldiers didn’t have an official uniform and would have modified what they were wearing based on combat situations. There are some components you won’t want to miss, so always do some research on Ancient Rome’s military outfits.

Basics

Even before you consider armor choices, you’re going to need the basics: a tunic and sandals. A tunic is essentially an upside-down sack with head and arm holes. Sometimes they have short sleeves, but they were not a necessary. In Hollywood movies, these are almost always dyed red, but they could also have been left their natural color. The sandals were only really standardized during the time of Imperial Rome, so any sandal that is practical, durable, and leather-based would likely work for a costume.

Accessories

Next, the Roman soldiers would have had a linen or wool scarf, to absorb sweat and protect their necks from their armor, and wool shorts that went to the knee. They would also have a belt, with dangling straps on the front (called baltea), that would reflect their status. You can add some leather bracers to your Roman costume, but there is almost no historical evidence pointing to their existence in ancient Rome.

Armor

On top of the tunic, the Roman soldier would usually have armor. The most iconic armor would be the overlapping metal or leather plates that protect the torso. As with the other elements, the armor generally reflected the financial standing of the soldier. If your costume is meant to be a regular foot-soldier, there should not be a lot of fancy embellishments. Many different designs have historical justifications, and chain mail was fairly common under imperial rule. In addition to the torso, soldiers would typically have a helmet, sometimes with cheek guards and/or a horse-hair plume on top. Styles vary based on time period, but the most well know have a skull-cap, brow ridge, and rear neck protector.

Weapons

The final touches on a Roman soldier costume would be the shield and weapons. A Roman shield would be curved, to deflect thrusts and projectiles, and extend from shoulder to knee. Although mostly wood, it should have a metal knob in the middle for offensive use. The sword, called a gladius, was relatively short and carried on the right side via a horizontal over-the-shoulder strap. If desired, you can also outfit your costume with a javelin, but keep in mind the situations you will be in.

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/10/a-brief-introduction-to-roman-soldier-costumes/feed/0Why Roman Helmets Had Brushes on Themhttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/07/why-roman-helmets-had-brushes-on-them/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/07/why-roman-helmets-had-brushes-on-them/#respondFri, 07 Jul 2017 20:59:22 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=752Continue reading →]]>Scholars who study history have differing theories for the reasons behind the brush on a Roman soldier’s helmet. There are 3 main theories: decoration, protection, and rank. These theories aren’t mutually exclusive, so you don’t have to believe one is better than the other. However, for those who are experts in the subject, they can spark a debate.

As a decoration, the plume may not have been without function. Soldiers with brushes would look taller to the enemy and be more imposing. The Romans were not impervious to the belief in magic, so the right type of plume may have encouraged soldiers to take on an aspect related to the brush. A brush that looked like a lion’s mane may have inspired lion-like courage.

Many of the brushes were made of thick horsehair with a curved rod of metal keeping it attached to the helmet, which could give it some protective qualities. Some scholars have pointed out that different ranks wore different kinds of brushes. A side to side brush signified a Centurion. A front to back brush signified the second in command.

At the Armor Venue, we specialize in creating historically accurate armor from many time periods. Regardless of the reason for the brush on the helmet, when you order from us, you’re getting a highly detailed, wearable work of art. Our work is second to none. Contact us with your armor needs. We look forward to helping you find the right conversation or reenactment pieces.

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/07/07/why-roman-helmets-had-brushes-on-them/feed/0Getting to Know Your Roman Armorhttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/06/getting-to-know-your-roman-armor/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/06/getting-to-know-your-roman-armor/#respondTue, 06 Jun 2017 11:02:04 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=748Continue reading →]]>If you collect Roman armor as a hobby, you probably take the time to search for authentic Roman armor. Roman armor is most recognizable for its use in epic battles and wars. But just how much do you know about it? Not all Roman armor is the same and such armor changed through the history of the Roman Empire. Here are some facts to help determine what type of Roman armor you have in your collection.

Lorica Segmentata

Lorica segmentata armor is not only the most recognizable Roman armor, but it also the most protective. Such armor is worn by members of the legion and by heavy fighters. The main armor around the torso is made out of two semi-circular sections that were enclosed around the chest and the stomach. Further protection is added using breast and back plating as well as shoulder guards. The armor itself is made out of iron hoops that are fixed together with leather straps. Some iron plates are hardened, giving them a resemblance to steel. Any hinges, tie-rings, or buckles are made out of brass. Loricasegmentatais big and very heavy to wear. Only a simple undershirt is worn to reduce discomfort.

Lorica Squamata

Lorica squamata is a scale type of Roman armor. Visually, it often resembles the surfaces of certain fish. This type of armor was also used by the Roman legion in the later periods of the Roman empire. The armor is composed of hundreds of thin scales that are either made out of iron or bronze. These thin plates were then sewn together to create armor that covers the back, chest, and torso areas. Such plates were no thicker than 0.8 millimeters in thickness. Because the plates were sewn together in an overlapping fashion, the armor had extra strength and durability. Lorica squamata armor also varied by the types of scales. Some scales are flat while others were curved. Tin is also added on the surfaces of some scales as well as the shirt for decoration.

Lorica Hamata

Lorica hamata is also known as a type of chain mail armor. Chain mail consists of multiple metallic rings that are bound together to create a mesh-like pattern. This armor was worn by legion members during the final days of the Roman Empire. These metallic rings are about 7 millimeters in diameter and are made out of iron or bronze. Over 30,000 metal rings are interlocked in an alternating pattern with a punched washer to join together what would become a ring of metal wire. Extra protection is added by the addition of shoulder flaps. Lorica armor took months to complete, but the mesh made it very durable. Some armor even survived and was used by armies in the Middle Ages.

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/06/getting-to-know-your-roman-armor/feed/0Facts about Roman Helmets for Collectorshttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/04/facts-about-roman-helmets-for-collectors/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/04/facts-about-roman-helmets-for-collectors/#respondSun, 04 Jun 2017 10:49:46 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=745Continue reading →]]>The Roman Republic and Empire each flourished as major world powers for hundreds of years. Any collectors who want good examples of helmet craftsmanship will have a lot to choose from. In case you’d like to learn a little bit about these pieces of Roman soldier armor, we have a few quick facts for you.

Design

Roman helmets varied widely based on the time period and who was wearing them, such as gladiators or soldiers of varying ranks. However, the basic design of metal helmets was the same once they came into fashion. Though previously, Roman soldiers had worn leather helmets strengthened by metal, they eventually had their helmets beaten out of a single sheet of iron or brass and often topped them with a crest on a knob or a spike.

Commanders who needed to be seen topped theirs with bright crests made of horsehair or feathers. There is some evidence that soldiers of different ranks wore the crests facing different directions, and these crests were probably dyed more colors than just the red seen in movies. Some might have even been dyed in alternating color patterns.

Types

The earliest major types of helmet were the Montefortino and the Coolus, both rounded helmets with a plume-holding knob on top and a protruding neck guard. After these came different forms of the Imperial helmet, which were far more elaborate in design and decoration. These took the early forms and added a protective piece across the forehead along with guards for the sides of the face.

The forehead piece disappeared in late antiquity as Imperial helmets were replaced by Ridge helmets. Unlike all the previous Roman helmets, which had been based off of Celtic designs, the Ridge helmet was closer to Middle Eastern designs. As the name suggests, these helmets had vertical ridges running down the bowl of the helmet. They didn’t usually have any sort of knob or plume on top, but they did have thin nose guards for further protection of the face.

]]>http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/04/facts-about-roman-helmets-for-collectors/feed/0Famous Historical Knight Helmets You Should Check Outhttp://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/02/famous-historical-knight-helmets-you-should-check-out/
http://blog.armorvenue.com/2017/06/02/famous-historical-knight-helmets-you-should-check-out/#respondFri, 02 Jun 2017 11:08:28 +0000http://blog.armorvenue.com/?p=735Continue reading →]]>Throughout the history of warfare, several helmet styles stand out: the Imperial helmet, the medieval knight helmet, and the Japanese helmet. Keep reading to learn more about these unique pieces from the experts at the Armor Venue.

The Imperial Helmet

By far, one of the most recognized helmets of ancient history is the Imperial helmet worn by Roman legionaries. This helmet replaced the Coolus helmet around the 2nd century AD. By comparison, the Imperial helmet was more form-fitting and ornate, and it provided better neck and ear protection. Plumes of feathers or dyed horsehair were often attached to the top of the headpiece, which helped distinguish military leaders in the heat of battle. It was also worn by famous gladiators who competed at the Roman colosseum. It’s one of the last evolutions of this style to come out of the Roman Empire.

The Medieval Helmet

The medieval era brought many innovations in the art of war. Several different helmets came out of this era including the Sugarloaf, the Norman, and the Great Helm. The most revolutionary device to come out of this time period, however, is the closed-style helmet. This protective piece of headgear had pivot points on either side of the head where a visor could attach. The visor could then be raised and lowered as needed. Ornate versions of this helm were popular at jousting tourneys where they were worn by knights in matching armor. As smithing technology improved, the design incorporated family sigils and took the shape of fearsome beasts. It’s also a must for medieval fairs and battle re-enactments.

The Japanese Helmet

The Japanese helmet, also known as the kabuto, served several purposes in the ancient orient. They were functional as well as ceremonial. The most recognized type of kabuto is the suji bachi that incorporated an angled neck guard made of metal and raised flanges on either side of the helm. The rounded top was often decorated with elaborate metalwork or etched kanji. Often, combatants would wear iron or papier-mâché masks modeled after demons. The masks were meant to intimidate the enemy into fleeing the battlefield.

The Imperial helmet, the medieval knight helmet, and the Japanese helmet are just some of the most well-known headpieces you’ll find at the Armor Venue.